UKSE has given grassroots rugby an important boost with a £1000 for ground improvements at an historic Welsh club.

Aberavon Quins, or The Mighty Quins as they are better known, are aiming to enhance facilities for their young stars of the future and are building a play area for the youngsters at the family-friendly club.

UKSE, the Tata Steel subsidiary, has donated £1000 from its Community Fund, and Coach of the Junior Rugby section, Ashley Jones, is delighted. “This is a project we have been wanting to push ahead with for some time and we are very grateful to UKSE for their support,” he said.

The club is at the heart of the local community and a focus for families. “Our Junior section is strong with three youth sides, Under 7, Under 10 and Under 13. There are many families here on match days and we want to provide them with a good experience when they visit and encourage them to support the club and its work,” he added.

Quins has an impressive history, and has been the launch pad for many great players including Regan Grace who played Rugby League for English club St Helens and has appeared for Cardiff Rugby at the Arms Park. Welsh Internationals Richard Hibberd and James Hook also honed their skills as youngsters at the club.

Howard Thompson Regional Executive with UKSE in Wales said he was pleased to be helping the club move forward with this important project. “Local rugby clubs are vital to the wellbeing of the community and they are kept going by the hard work of volunteers , such as Ashley, who selflessly give their time for the good of all.

“This type of project is exactly the reason we established our Community Fund which supports local initiatives here in Neath Port Talbot and further afield across South Wales.”